Protected areas have been at the forefront of global conservation efforts. They define the boundaries of critical ecosystems and biodiversity hotspots. However, a variety of different terminologies and special regulations around the status of these areas may dilute the concept and confuse the environmental practitioner. Ultimately, it may lead to harmful interventions in … [Read more...] about Strengthening conservationism in developing countries: The protected area approach
Environmental and Social Safeguards
The ten elements of a meaningful stakeholder engagement process
International development practitioners have gained valuable insights over the years. One of the most impactful realizations is the need to increase transparency and engagement in the development process. For years, senior representatives from multilateral institutions have met regularly to discuss standards and experiences to ensure consistency of approach and share good … [Read more...] about The ten elements of a meaningful stakeholder engagement process
What do big, poofy hairstyles and the ozone layer have in common?
If you were a kid or teenager in the late 1970s and 1980s you probably danced to a music video on MTV and attempted an elaborate hairstyle inspired by all the trendy music movements: from the curly and bouffant ‘dos of pop stars like Madonna and Michael Jackson to elaborate, glam rock styles worn by Motley Crue’s Nikki Sixx and Slash from Gun’s n Roses. It goes without … [Read more...] about What do big, poofy hairstyles and the ozone layer have in common?
Five tips for conducting meaningful public consultations
The process of public consultations with project stakeholders is one of the key elements to ensure project sustainability. Consultations can be a decisive factor in the success of the project that seeks to promote local development. In order to be effective, it is necessary for this process to be meaningful, but what does that mean? How do we guarantee its … [Read more...] about Five tips for conducting meaningful public consultations
Coming to a Crossroad: Analysis of Alternatives in Project Development
If you consider the Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) as the skeleton of a project, the Analysis of Alternatives (AoA) can certainly be considered as the backbone. The AoA examines the feasible alternatives of a proposed project from different points of view: technical, financial, regulatory, jurisdictional, environmental and social. Through this examination, … [Read more...] about Coming to a Crossroad: Analysis of Alternatives in Project Development